What Verdica's 796 score means for First Coast Technical College
First Coast Technical College's composite score of 796 out of 850 places it in the "excellent" band (800–850). This score reflects strong overall performance across the three dimensions Verdica measures: accreditation standing, student outcomes, and regulatory compliance.
A score in this range indicates that the institution meets or exceeds baseline expectations set by federal and state regulators, and performs comparably well on available outcome metrics. For a prospective student, employer, or partner evaluating the college, a 796 suggests low institutional risk. The institution is not on any publicly visible compliance watch list and demonstrates stable operations across the measured categories.
It's important to note that Verdica's score is composite—it aggregates three distinct data streams. First Coast's score of 796 places it above the "strong" threshold (740–799) and approaches the top tier. No independent customer reviews are currently indexed for this entity, so the score is built entirely from regulatory and outcome data, not user feedback.
How the sub-scores break down
Accreditation: 820
This sub-score reflects the institution's accreditation status. A score of 820 indicates the college holds active, unrestricted accreditation from its regional or specialized accreditor. Accreditation is the primary gating mechanism in U.S. education—without it, an institution cannot participate in federal student aid (Title IV). A high accreditation score means no pending sanctions, probation, or warnings from the accrediting body. It signals that the institution has met standards for curriculum quality, faculty qualifications, facilities, and financial stability.
Student Outcomes: 740
This sub-score is based on IPEDS data—federal outcome metrics typically including graduation or completion rates, employment rates post-graduation, and loan repayment rates for Title IV borrowers. A score of 740 falls into the "strong" range but is the lowest of First Coast's three sub-scores. This suggests the institution's outcomes are solid but not exceptional relative to peer institutions. It may reflect completion rates or employment placement rates that are above minimum thresholds but not in the top tier. For a technical college, outcomes often vary by program; this aggregate score averages across all offerings.
Compliance: 835
This sub-score reflects Title IV compliance—the institution's adherence to federal rules governing student aid disbursement, loan servicing, financial aid application processes, and reporting requirements. A score of 835 indicates the college has no material Title IV violations, audit findings, or enforcement actions on record. High compliance scores mean the institution is managing federal funds appropriately and meeting administrative deadlines and audit standards.
What regulators in FL track for education providers
Florida education institutions are overseen by multiple bodies:
- Regional Accreditors (e.g., SACSCOC) conduct periodic reviews and monitor academic quality, financial health, and governance.
- Florida Department of Education oversees career and technical education licensing, program approval, and state funding.
- U.S. Department of Education monitors Title IV compliance through audit, program review, and enforcement actions. Common infractions include improper loan servicing, false Graduation Rate Act reporting, enrollment verification errors, and inadequate institutional controls.
- IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System) collects enrollment, outcome, and financial data used to compute federal metrics and public transparency measures.
Regulators focus on whether institutions maintain financial reserves, employ qualified faculty, deliver advertised programs, properly disburse aid, and accurately report outcomes. Violations can trigger program review, loss of federal aid eligibility, or civil penalties.
Bottom line
First Coast Technical College's score of 796 reflects a well-regulated, compliant institution with strong accreditation and solid student outcomes. Before enrolling or partnering, verify program-specific outcomes (graduation, employment, cost) through IPEDS or the college's website, as aggregate scores mask variation across disciplines.